Smithsonian Museum
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Flag of the Smithsonian Institution
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 Location within Central Washington, D.C.
Location within Central Washington, D.C.
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| Established | August 10, 1846 |
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| Location | Washington, D.C.; Chantilly, Virginia; New York City |
| Coordinates | 38°53′20″N 77°01′34″W / 38.889°N 77.026°WCoordinates: 38°53′20″N 77°01′34″W / 38.889°N 77.026°W |
| Director | David J. Skorton, Secretary of the Smithsonian |
| Website | www |
The Smithsonian Institution (/smɪθˈsoʊniən/ smith-SOE-nee-ən), established in 1846 "for the increase and diffusion of knowledge," is a group of museums and research centers administered by the Government of the United States. Originally organized as the "United States National Museum," that name ceased to exist as an administrative entity in 1967.
Termed "the nation's attic" for its eclectic holdings of 154 million items, the Institution's nineteen museums, nine research centers, and zoo include historical and architectural landmarks, mostly located in the District of Columbia. Additional facilities are located in Arizona, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York City, Pittsburgh, Texas, Virginia, and Panama. More than 200 institutions and museums in 45 states, Puerto Rico, and Panama are Smithsonian Affiliates.
The Institution's thirty million annual visitors are admitted without charge. Its annual budget is around $1.2 billion with 2/3 coming from annual federal appropriations. Other funding comes from the Institution's endowment, private and corporate contributions, membership dues, and earned retail, concession, and licensing revenue. Institution publications include Smithsonian and Air & Space magazines.
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